Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Remember

NYC 9/12/2001 Vivid Hue Home

I used the same photo on the blog last year. For me, it has sort of become "the photo" that represents "that time." I had only been living in the city for four months. The first plane shook my apartment walls with a deep bellowing rumble. I muted the "Today" Show because I thought my upstairs neighbors were dragging furniture across the hardwood floors. Seconds later, I watched in amazement as the show was interrupted. I hurriedly shut the TV off--late for work--and eager to understand what was unfolding out on the streets a few blocks below.

The world was literally frozen outside. Cabs were stopped in the streets. People stood still on the pavement. Strangers huddled together by car radios trying to listen to the early reports and figure out what was going on.

The city shut down for days. I spent much time in Union Square where I snapped this photo.

I was so new to the city that I hadn't yet met the great friends I would later meet...therefore, much of this time I spent alone. But strangely, I didn't feel alone at all. The city and the people of the city bonded like nothing I've ever seen.

Movie theaters opened their doors for free and offered unlimited shows and free popcorn. Groups of people walked down the street singing 'Amazing Grace.' Strangers everywhere offered smiles of hope.

From that time forward, I have felt an intense loyalty and bond to the city, my friends and the people of New York City. May we remember the thousands of lives lost (not only in NYC that day) and thank those that continue to fight for our country so that we can enjoy our freedom.